2 nabbed in Sebastian Drug Bust

2 nabbed in Sebastian Drug Bust

Sebastian, Fla- A month’s long investigation culminated in the arrest of two Brevard residents who have been supplying a variety of controlled substances to local purchasers, some who may be resellers.  Cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and various forms of marijuana were seized in trafficking quantities during a subsequent raid at Best Western Inn & Suites on US 1 following an undercover buy.  Also seized was a large quantity of cash and a vehicle.

On Tuesday, March 7, shortly after midnight, the Sebastian Police Department Narcotics Unit purchased heroin from Corderro Dante East, 29, of Melbourne. About two hours later, a search warrant was obtained for the hotel room where the drug dealing had been conducted.  The room also was occupied by Alisha Markell Neil, 25, of Rockledge.  She later implicated herself in the illegal drug activity.

Police discovered 24 grams of heroin, 59 grams of methamphetamine, 22 grams of powder and crack cocaine, 4 grams of marijuana and a vape pen filled with THC.  Also in the room was over $4,000 in cash, a scale, and plastic bags.

Charges for the two subjects included:  Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Heroin, Cocaine, and possession of THC Extract and Less than 20 Grams of Cannabis.  East was also charged with Sale of Heroin.  Alisha Neil’s bail is $1,160,000.  East’s bail is $1,010,000.  Both have charges that could result in decades long prison sentences. Neil and East remained in the Indian River County Jail as of Wednesday evening.

“These are not a couple of petit users,” said Chief Michelle Morris.  “They were bringing in illegal drugs from out-of-town and pushing it out to people in the Sebastian area.  Many of these purchasers suffer from addiction. Other may have been reselling as secondary dealers.  We will always aggressively pursue such predatory activity to the best of our ability, particularly when it comes to drugs like heroin and meth.”

There is intelligence indicating that East had been selling here at various locations during the past year.  There is no indication that any employee of Best Western was involved and the management was cooperative during entire incident.  East would sneak the purchasers in through a side door near the street.

“There is video from within and outside the hotel property,” said Detective Mike Brandes. “We know some of the people that were coming to purchase from East.  We may have more charges on these subjects and others.  This investigation may spin off into other cases.”

Anyone with information regarding this or other drug activity is asked to contact Detective Mike Brandes at 772-589-5233, or call Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at (800) 273-8477.  You can receive cash for crime tips and remain completely anonymous.